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Polymer functionalized submicrometric emulsions as potential synthetic DNA vectors
Thomas Trimaille1, Carole Chaix, Christian Pichot
1UMR 2142, CNRS-bioMérieux, ENS-Lyon, 46 allée d'Italie, 69364 Lyon Cedex 07, France.
Journal of Colloid and Interface Science
|February 26, 2003
Summary
Functionalized triglyceride emulsions efficiently bind nucleic acids like DNA. Binding affinity increases with positive surface charge, showing distinct adsorption behaviors and moderate plasmid compaction.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Triglyceride-based emulsions are versatile carriers.
- Surface functionalization enhances emulsion properties.
- Nucleic acid delivery requires efficient complexation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To functionalize triglyceride emulsions with amphiphilic copolymers.
- To investigate nucleic acid adsorption onto these functionalized emulsions.
- To characterize the binding mechanisms and plasmid complexation.
Main Methods:
- Solvent displacement for emulsion preparation.
- Surface deposition of comb-like copolymers for functionalization.
- Dynamic light scattering and electrophoretic mobility for characterization.
- Nucleic acid adsorption isotherms and ethidium bromide displacement assay.
Main Results:
- Functionalized emulsions exhibited controlled particle size and surface charge.
- Nucleic acid adsorption depended on interface properties and cationic charge.
- Two binding regimes were observed: concentration-independent and concentration-dependent.
- Plasmid complexation resulted in lower compaction compared to free polymers.
Conclusions:
- Surface-modified triglyceride emulsions are effective for nucleic acid binding.
- Cationic charge and accessibility are key factors for enhanced affinity.
- Understanding binding regimes is crucial for optimizing delivery systems.
- The functionalized emulsions offer a platform for nucleic acid delivery applications.